If you gather several people who want to learn how to lead cuddle events, I can come to your city!
Hi, I’m Jean Franzblau, Founder of the Cuddle Sanctuary Event Leader Training Program in Los Angeles. I teach people who want to bring more warmth and connection into the world how to expertly lead their own “touch positive” community events.
“Your workshops changed my life.”
I often hear these words from our passionate, die-hard participants. It’s incredibly gratifying to create an experience for people that delivers the human contact and sense of community they crave. I’ll be hand-selecting a limited number of students to learn the secret sauce of what makes Cuddle Sanctuary tick. Participants will leave the program with the skills, experience and practice they need to lead their own cuddle workshops. There will also be a few slots available for students who want to take a deep dive into our Cuddle Sanctuary community yet don’t have a plan to lead workshops themselves.
This program will delight, challenge and change you.
When you put a group of human beings together who care as deeply about people and the world as the fans of Cuddle Sanctuary are, it creates a potent alchemy. When you add the experienced facilitation and world-class program design that I’ll be bringing you, you can expect fireworks. Besides the personal growth you’ll experience and the new friendships that will emerge, you’ll also have the confidence and certification to lead workshops that truly and deeply help people.
We’ve put on over a hundred events in Los Angeles and new people keep finding us monthly. Our BuzzFeed video received over ten millions views – clearly the message of healthy, human connection is hitting a chord in our touch-deprived culture.
And then the pandemic.
Social distancing – though uncomfortable and even painful for many – seems to have resulted in an awakening.
People understand now – more than ever – we need connection, we need kindness, and we need each other.
The world needs more cuddling!
With a Cuddle Sanctuary Event Leader Certificate, you have an opportunity to literally be the change you wish to see in the world. This thirty-hour program includes three days of hands-on classroom education. You’ll receive training documents including a workbook, audio file and workshop guide.There will be practice sessions, demonstrations, mini-lectures, one-on-one coaching and lively discussions. There will also be time to digest what you’re learning, socialize and if you’d like – cuddle!
“I really like the pace and format of the training, it went so quick!” Frank Whitaker – Student, Certified Event Leader
“This training exceeded my expectations…I feel lucky and grateful for the opportunity I had with this course, with Jean Franzblau, Fei Wyatt and their amazing team.” Tom Rees – Student, Certified Event Leader
You could spend a lot of time trying to figure out how to facilitate these events yourself. Or simply let me show you how. I’ll be sharing all of my secrets, tips and techniques that create the social safety, camaraderie and magic moments that make Cuddle Sanctuary – Cuddle Sanctuary!
There are three things a cuddle event leader needs:
Event Design
Facilitation Skills
Support
Event Design
Imagine a photo of a cuddle event in full swing. People are smiling in a puppy pile of happy humans. It looks easy, relaxed, and peaceful. If you’ve attended cuddle events already, you may already know that without structure, guidelines, and an environment of trust, it can go sideways in numerous ways. The solution is in the event design. I’ve spent years testing, adapting, and refining Cuddle Sanctuary Socials. Let me show you the method. In this certification program, I’ll share all of my secrets, tips, and techniques that create the social safety, camaraderie, and magical moments that make Cuddle Sanctuary events so special.
Facilitation Skills
Working with groups successfully requires presentation skills, self awareness, and being able to “read the room.” Facilitation skills are baked into this course. You’ll emerge with the knowledge and experience for leading not just cuddle experiences but any workshop or event. If you’re a seasoned workshop leader, this course will take your abilities to the next level. It’s like getting a two for one! I’ve worked with groups for over twenty years as a corporate trainer presenting in eight countries with groups large and small. Bottom line – when it comes to facilitation skills – I’ve got you covered.
Support
I remember the first cuddle events that I offered to the public. I was terrified. Who would show up at the door? Would I be able to handle every situation? I wish I had then what I have now – a community of friends and colleagues that I can go to with questions, concerns, and challenges. This certification program includes access to the Cuddle Sanctuary alumni Facebook community and monthly support calls. You don’t have to do this alone. We’ve got your back!
Don’t take my word for it!
I’m totally biased about my events! Here’s what people say about Cuddle Sanctuary Socials:
“Fantastic experience! This was unlike anything I’ve ever done. I enjoyed soaking up all the love and positive vibes in the space.”
“What a great experience! I was so impressed with how the session was structured and facilitated. It really allowed you to be in control and totally comfortable. It was a great learning experience and taught me about myself as well. Can’t wait to go back!”
“I loved this event! Before I knew it, all my nervousness melted away and I exchanged many comforting hugs with new people. I felt a deep sense of well-being, peace, and comfort. It was over too soon. I will be back!”
“Beautiful, wonderful, unique experience! A treasure of LA.”
“I found Cuddle Sanctuary after losing my wife of 18 years. Was missing connection and touch. Coming to cuddle has really changed my life for the better! With the safe place to learn really important tools around touch, it has allowed me to give and receive touch in super clear and fun ways!”
“I always feel healed, connected and happy when I’m here. Also the facilitators are GREAT at their job, and I know I can count on them for any support I need.”
Earn a Certification as a Cuddle Event Leader…
…and begin a potent path!
What’s Included?
- 23+ hours of live training with a master cuddle event leader
- Fellow students/colleagues with whom you will be training
- Lifetime access to online course materials
Here’s What Happens in Class
Friday
On our first busy morning together, we’ll get to know each other and dive right into learning the basics of how to facilitate three elements of a good cuddle:
Opening Circle
Guidelines
Body and Breath
You’ll be learning experientially every step of the way. We’ll begin with a demonstration of the element that we’re working on. From there we’ll deconstruct it in a group discussion. After that, you’ll get a chance to try it out. We’ll provide feedback so we can all learn from each other. All feedback will be constructive and respectful. Each participant will get tips and suggestions for how to take their skills to the next level.
We’ll charge forward by exploring three more important elements of Cuddle Sanctuary Socials:
“No Thank You” Exercise
Hug/No Hug Exercise
Group Debriefs
This portion of the day will allow us to delve into the important interpersonal work that creates a safe and trusting environment for participants.
Next we’ll go over our secrets for helping a bunch of strangers evolve quickly into a group of friends by exploring how to lead Paired Practices, Demonstrations and “Create Your Own Adventure.” These elements help participants cross a threshold towards more touch and less facilitation. All of our careful work creating trust and transparency leads to this moment. It takes strong leadership to set up both the paired and group practice. And you’ll be getting all the tips you need.
Setting up a demonstration for participants is an artform. We’ll explore best practices on how to do it and as with everything in the training – you’ll have time to practice and receive feedback.
With mastery of each of the above portions of our cuddle events, your participants can easily transition to their favorite part: Cuddling! You’ll be amazed how you can smoothly lead your group to begin The Cuddle Laboratory. They’ll thank you for it!
You’ll finish the day learning how to lead a powerful, satisfying Closing Circle so that your participants leaves feeling happy and complete.
Friday Night
On Friday night, you’ll experience an exclusive cuddle for just the students. Get ready to melt into connection, affection and fun. You’ll have a chance to try out what you learned during the day in an ultra-safe, nurturing environment. School has never been this fun.
Saturday
We’ve got lots to do on Day 2 so we’ll be meeting bright and early. We’ll start off with a debrief of our first day of learning. From there we’ll discuss the “pros and cons” of gender balancing and practice the art of setting boundaries as a leader. We’ll take time to explore the business aspects of leading cuddle events and answer any questions you have.
In the afternoon, you’ll have a chance to receive individual coaching and also to practice leading different parts of a cuddle event. You’ll receive lots of group and individual feedback from your trainers and your peers.
We’ll go over what to expect for your Practicum, with guidance on how to prepare so you can be at your best.
Sunday “The Practicum”
We’ve got lots more practice cued up for you on Sunday. You and your fellow students will set up, greet guests and each have a part to play in facilitating a Cuddle Sanctuary Social. There’s so much to learn when theory meets practice!
Once the guests are gone, we’ll debrief the experience with some snacks. Then – as quickly as it all started – we’ll be done. We’ll celebrate with a closing circle, poignant goodbyes. You can take photos if you’d like.
Are you ready for your adventure? We have a limited number of spots. Apply now!
Cuddle Sanctuary students have this to say about our courses
“We explored so many interesting topics. I’m really glad I enrolled! Now – thanks to the training – I feel totally ready. Thank you very, very much!”
Madline, CalinoBXL
“The experience I had and the knowledge I gained is priceless. My overall impression: I ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT!”
Ondrej Franek – Hug Haven
“This training exceeded my expectations. After the training I felt very empowered and full of hope and courage.”
Tom Rees – Certified Event Leader
Enroll now and get these four bonuses
Some courses provide good information but then leave you hanging when it comes to follow up. Cuddle Sanctuary’s Nourishing Nuggets can be your perfect post-training solution. Each Nugget provides tips, tricks, and techniques geared especially for cuddle event leaders. The information is presented in a digestible format with achievable goals. Your Nourishing Nuggets will be delivered to your email inbox weekly and will keep on supporting you for two months after your training is complete.
Value: $99
This online class is the meat and potatoes of the program and a prerequisite for Certification. It has the foundational information that you need for leading successful events. This online, self-paced class has over 20 lessons and more than 15 videos. It includes audio demonstrations, scripts, checklists, and quizzes to keep you on your toes. You’ll have unlimited access to this class so that you can refer to it again and again. (If you’ve already purchased the Guide, your investment is safe. The amount you paid will be deducted from the cost of your tuition for this certification program.)
Value: $99
It’s inevitable, once you launch your events, you’ll have questions. Our monthly support call is a forum where you can get the answers you need while relaxing in the presence of your peers. Join these Zoom calls with your phone, tablet, or computer. If you can’t make it, you’ll have a whole week to watch the recording and see what you missed. These calls can be a place to not only get help but also to celebrate your successes. Together, we can do anything.
Value: $299
Our “Certified Event Leaders” web page is a great place for people in your area to find you and your events. Being posted on the Cuddle Sanctuary website is a badge of honor. If you fulfill the qualifications for certification, this bonus will be yours. We’ll ask you to send your photo and a write-up. We’ll take care of the rest.
Value: $117
Bonuses worth more than $600
Tuition
Which path is right for you? The tuition for a one-on-one mentorship is $2,797.
The tuition for the three-day in-person intensive is $1,997
Application fee: $25. This fee is nonrefundable. If you’re accepted into the program, the application fee will be applied to your tuition.
Payment plans, financial aid, and some partial racial equity scholarships are available.
This program may sell out!
What If You Have a Change of Heart?
If need be, you can change your mind, cancel your enrollment in the course, and get 80% of your money back – as long as it’s 30 days before the first day of class. If you need to postpone attending the course, I can accommodate you in a future one as long as space is available. You must attend the course within one year of purchase. On my end, if a session has low enrollment, I reserve the right to postpone it.
My credentials
I’m Jean Franzblau, AKA Cuddle Queen Jean, and I’ll be your instructor. I’m the Founder of Cuddle Sanctuary – the Los Angeles destination for touch-positive events and professional cuddling since 2014. As a teacher, I’m known for having a fun, upbeat style honed by my years in corporate training and the performing arts.
I studied facilitation with Cuddle Party and the Association of Talent Development and am a Certified Professional Cuddler. I trained with Dr. Betty Martin who teaches the Wheel of Consent. I’ve also appeared as a cuddle expert on Dr. Phil, BuzzFeed, Keeping Up the Kardashians, and in Rolling Stone. In terms of formal schooling, I graduated cum laude with a BA in communications from UCLA. You can find my writing in The Consent Guidebook.
A note about my intersecting identities: I am a white skinned, able bodied, straight, cis-woman with Eastern European Jewish ancestry. I share this in hopes that you can decide for yourself if my background will be a comfort or distraction from your learning experience. I’m in an ongoing process of educating myself so that my inevitable blind spots do less harm while dedicating resources towards social justice and anti-racism. This course includes content and resources to further the cultural shift towards racial equity.
FAQ
Certification, Schedule and Attendance
Q: How are Cuddle Sanctuary events different than Cuddle Parties?
A: Cuddle Sanctuary events begin with activities and exercises so that newcomers learn the event’s etiquette while getting to know the other guests. Cuddle Party events begin with a typically less interactive approach where the facilitator reads from a document with the rules in the first 40 minutes of the event. Both organizations teach consent, good boundaries, and are full of heart.
Q: How long is the course, when does it start and when are the classes held?
A: The course is three days. Our next one is TBD. For those who want to be certified, there is homework before and after the course.
Q: Besides the homework and attending the course in person, what else does it take to get certified?
A: We use a Green/Yellow method to determine if we can certify a student. You can learn more about the Green/Yellow method and the requirements for certification here.
Homework
Q: Is there homework I need to complete before the first day of class?
A: Yes. If you’re accepted into the program, we’ll send you your homework so you can get started right away. Your “before training” homework includes reviewing the Leadership Guide for Cuddle Events and, if it’s feasible, attending a cuddle event in your area. (You can expect the Guide to take at least 4 hours to review.)
Q: Is there homework after the 3-day intensive?
A: If you’re hoping to be certified, yes. After the training is over you’ll be required to set up and complete two more cuddle events. This will help you gain more experience and receive feedback. You’ll also read an important book that will help you become a trauma informed leader and complete the 21-Day Racial Equity Habit Building Challenge.
Application and Money Questions
Q: What’s the application process?
A: Your first step is to pay the $25 application fee and fill out the application form. Once you do that, we’ll reach out to you within five days. If your application moves to the next level, we’ll set up a call to learn more about you and answer your questions. If you’re accepted into the program, we’ll discuss tuition payment options and then send you course materials.
Q: What if I don’t want to become a cuddle event leader, but I still want to take this course?
A: There are some people who decide to study with us for their own personal growth. If this is you, you are welcome to apply.
Q: I already paid for the Leadership Guide for Cuddle Events. Can I get a discount on the tuition for certification?
A: Yes. If you’re accepted into the program, the amount you paid for the Guide will be discounted from your tuition.
Q: Besides the application fee and tuition, are there other costs I should know about?
A: If you’re able to attend a cuddle event in your area, you would be responsible for that cost. Next, you’ll be putting on a cuddle event as part of your homework. The costs associated with that would be yours to cover. Lastly, there’s one book that you would need to read. You may be able to find it in your local library.
Q: Are there any scholarships for this course?
A: Yes. We have some financial aid and racial equity scholarships. To apply, click this link. Or to sponsor a student, click here.
Q: What if I change my mind?
A: If need be, you can change your mind, cancel your enrollment in the course, and get 80% of your money back – as long as it’s 30 days before the first day of class. If you need to postpone attending the course, we can accommodate you in a future one as long as space is available. You must attend the course within one year of purchase. On my end, if a session has low enrollment, I reserve the right to postpone it.
Q: What if I don’t like the training?
A: You can trust that your investment in this program is risk free. If you are not completely satisfied with your experience, we offer a 100% money back guarantee.